Tuesday, June 27, 2017

Motivation!

I hope you’re all pumped and ready for this blog, because it
deals with something near and dear to my heart, and that’s motivation.
Motivation can be a tricky subject and sometimes (like maybe when you signed up
for the Beast) you can be extremely motivated, excited, and ready to take on
the world! Other days, it’s hard to take even a step towards the gym -- it could
be because you have a demanding job, children to take care, or things just
aren’t going your way! I am here to help and keep you motivated to train for
the Beast on The Bay because like it or not, September is coming fast and you
need to be ready to go. Let’s do this!

Tip #1: Prepare,
prepare, prepare!

Do I need to say it again?! Haha I know it sounds silly, but
having your belongings, meals, and day planned out can help eliminate the
stress that comes from our busy lives. You are more likely to complete a
workout if you’ve already carved that time out in your day. If you’re someone
that needs to work out in the morning, set out your workout clothing by your
phone, alarm clock, or the rooster that wakes you up in the morning! It’s a
reminder to yourself, “Hey, it’s time to work, no excuses!” If you are someone who
needs to work out in the evening after work, prep your gym bag the night before
and then immediately place it in your car. You’re less likely to forget it that
way! Even placing it in the backseat so you can see it in your review mirror as
a little added push!

Tip #2: Phone a
friend

I’m sure most of you are not running this Beast on your own!
So call and set dates with friends or teammates to work out together! You could
even do the workouts given to you by this awesome blog! Training in a group is
highly motivating and it keeps things interesting! If you are participating
solo, there are several groups in the area preparing together! If large crowds
aren’t your deal, hire a trainer. Having someone to help with the progression
of your workouts at a safe pace and keep you accountable can be extremely
motivating!

Tip #3: Music

Music affects my mood sooo much, and honestly when I’m
training, it can make or break a workout! Often times I use a music app such as
Pandora or Spotify to mix it up. If your gym doesn’t offer Wi-Fi, then creating
a playlist from your favorite artists can really get you amped to push
yourself! Warning: to keep it fresh, mix it up often and use the shuffle to
avoid repetition!

Tip #4: Eye on the
Prize

Look towards your end result; visualize yourself crossing
the finish line on September 9th! What does that look like to you? Who will be
there to congratulate you, how does the medal you’ve earned feel around your
neck? I remember when I was training for my first half marathon and the long
runs became tiring, I would visualize my boyfriend of 8 years waiting at the
finish line with a sign saying “Will you marry me?” He did not ask me but I just accomplished a
goal that was so major to me and I was happy with that! It doesn’t have to be something
so dramatic (ha!), but visualizing the day of the event and what you’re working
towards is so motivating! Side note: he did propose and we are now happily
married!

Tip #5: Treat yo’
self!

When I feel like motivation is lacking here and there, I do
what any reasonable lady would: treat myself! I’m not talking about anything
crazy, but purchasing new workout gear that makes me feel comfortable and
confident makes hitting the gym more fun! If you’ve been putting miles on your
favorite pair of running shoes, buy a new pair. It’s important for performance
and body alignment to replace after 300 miles anyway,so why not treat yo’self! If your headphone
cord bugs you when you’re working out splurge on a pair of wireless! If you’re feeling
tight and sore, reach in and find your inner diva and pamper yourself with a
massage!

Tip #6: Pick A Role
Model

Imitation is the biggest form of flattery and that can be
true with motivation. Pick an idol and learn about their life. I can guarantee
that the greats at anything didn’t have a peachy keen life. They, like everyone in life, can have rough times to
overcome and nothing is more inspiring than seeing someone else reach their
goals. One of my favorite athletes, Michael Jordan, had many
tribulations to overcome in his life, but he did not allow that to stop him. As
a daily reminder, I keep one of his quotes as my cellphone background! Just
remember, motivation can come and go, but when you’re feeling low or low
energy, follow these tips and it will return to you! Train hard and you can
accomplish anything -- The Beast on the Bay included! Until next time, keep up
the hard work! And be prepared: another
Beastly workout will be coming your way!